There’s nothing like enjoying a perfectly grilled meal in your own backyard oasis — and the centerpiece of that space is your outdoor BBQ. Whether you’re building a full outdoor kitchen or just a sleek grill surround, the stone you choose for your BBQ matters more than you might think.

From performance under high heat to how well it matches your backyard aesthetic, your stone plays both a functional and a visual role. At Desert Sky Surfaces, we help homeowners design stunning, long-lasting BBQ setups — and we know firsthand that color and material matter. Let’s break down why.

Color Sets the Tone

Your outdoor BBQ should blend seamlessly with your home’s exterior, landscape, and your personal style. That’s where color comes in.

Are you going for a modern vibe with deep charcoals and matte finishes? Or maybe a warm, rustic desert feel with earthy tones and textured surfaces? Either way, the color of your stone will set the tone for the entire space.

Unlike indoor countertops where you can get away with a subtle pattern or neutral shade, outdoor BBQs are a focal point — and your stone should reflect that. It’s not just a work surface; it’s a statement piece.

Keep in mind, especially here in Arizona, color isn’t just about looks — it can impact performance too. Darker colors like black or deep gray tend to absorb and retain more heat from the sun, which can make surfaces extremely hot to the touch during peak summer months. If your BBQ area gets full sun, you might want to consider lighter hues that reflect heat better and help keep the surface more comfortable to work on.

Material Makes the Difference

When it comes to BBQs, not all stone is created equal. Materials that look great indoors might not hold up to the heat, sun exposure, and weather conditions that come with outdoor use. That’s why durability and UV resistance are key when selecting a surface for your outdoor cooking area.

It’s important to know that quartz and quartzite are not recommended for outdoor use. Quartz is man-made with resins that can discolor or warp when exposed to UV rays, while natural quartzite — though beautiful — can be prone to weathering, fading, and other damage when constantly exposed to the elements.

So what does work well for outdoor BBQs? Here are some of our top choices:

• Granite – A classic option for outdoor use, granite is a natural stone that holds up well to heat and sun. It’s durable and comes in a wide range of colors and patterns.
• Dekton – An ultra-compact surface that’s made to resist heat, scratches, stains, and UV rays. Great for sleek, modern designs.
• Neolith – Another sintered stone like Dekton, Neolith is extremely durable and well-suited for outdoor kitchens.
• Porcelain – Our favorite for many outdoor applications. It’s heat-resistant, UV-stable, non-porous, and now available in more colors than ever — especially from brands like Daltile, who now offer 2cm porcelain.

Each of these materials brings something different to the table, and we can help you decide which one best fits your space, style, and budget.

Why Porcelain Stands Out for BBQs

Porcelain surfaces are engineered to handle high temperatures, UV exposure, and sudden weather changes. They’re stain-resistant, non-porous, and incredibly low-maintenance — exactly what you need for an outdoor cooking area.

But beyond performance, porcelain offers versatility in design. In fact, porcelain comes in more color and pattern options than materials like Dekton or Neolith, giving you more flexibility to match your vision.

One product we’re especially excited about is Daltile’s 2cm porcelain line, Panoramic. This material is unique because:

• It’s thicker and stronger, designed specifically for outdoor use.
• The color and pattern go all the way through the slab — no printed top layer.
• It eliminates the need for mitered edges, which makes the design cleaner and more seamless.

The result is a durable, gorgeous, and efficient installation that looks and feels custom-made.

Custom BBQs, Built for You

At Desert Sky Surfaces, we work with homeowners, builders, and designers to bring dream outdoor kitchens to life. From selecting the right material to ensuring the installation is built to last, we’re here for every step of the process.

Whether you’re imagining a luxury stone BBQ island, a cozy grilling nook, or a complete outdoor kitchen, we’ll help you choose a material that holds up to the Arizona heat and keeps your space looking sharp for years to come.

Ready to Start Your BBQ Project?

Let’s make your backyard the go-to gathering spot. Contact us today to talk about your custom stone BBQ — and let’s pick the perfect color and material for your outdoor living space.